Casey Schmitt delivers as Matt Chapman returns in Giants’ win – NBC Sports Bay Area & California

The presence of a team leader shouldn’t be undermined. 

After spending the minimum 10 days on the injured list due to right hand inflammation, Giants third baseman Matt Chapman made his return to the field against an MLB-best Milwaukee Brewers on Saturday at American Family Field.

San Francisco, entering Saturday on a four-game losing skid and 7.5 games out of the final National League wild-card spot, was in desperate need of a pick-me-up. 

Insert Chapman, whose presence on the field not only reinforced the Giants’ leaky defense but also reignited San Francisco’s bats in a much-needed 7-1 win in Milwaukee. 

Offensively, second baseman Casey Schmitt led the way, hitting a three-run homer and doubling in a run. 

In fitting style, Schmitt didn’t hesitate to credit Chapman’s leadership, which surely will be vital as the Giants make one last push for the MLB playoffs.

“He’s the leader here,” Schmitt said. “So, having that guy back on the field, and he’s been here with us. 

“But having him back on the field, it just makes us that much better. I know we’re all really glad to see him back over there [to] just keep things going.” 

The 32-year-old five-time Gold Glove winner has had two stints on the IL this season, missing 33 games, of which the Giants have won only 12. 

With Chapman on the field, San Francisco boasts a 50-47 record, including Saturday’s skid-snapping win. 

“Having Chapman back in the lineup, as far as taking pitches and drawing walks, is big for us,” manager Bob Melvin told reporters. 

Logan Webb allowed one run on five hits over six innings for San Francisco, while Dominic Smith, Luis Matos and Patrick Bailey each added two hits. 

The Giants remain in an uphill battle, but, lucky enough, they’ll do it with Chapman leading the way.

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